Mayor to examine council finances

Baw Baw Shire's new mayor says the council will avoid funding new projects until the council's finances are reviewed.

Murray Cook was elected as mayor of Baw Baw Shire Council last week.

Only three councillors from the previous council were re-elected, after months of community anger over an 11 per cent rate rise.

Cr Cook says he wants the council to spend within in its means and to avoid new projects in favour of fixing long-standing problems.

"Well the message that came through loud and clear from the public and everywhere that councillors went was drains and roads," he said.

"Roads and drains needed a lot of attention and people were quite adamant that that was a high priority.

"What we've got from the public is a mandate for change, so as far as this council is concerned we will be looking at all the different policies - they'll be on the table for review, gradually work through those, not making change for change sake but look at everything with fresh eyes."